Where can I find work?
NZMedics have vacancies throughout New Zealand for both hospital doctor’s and Family Physicians/General Practitioners. There are locum opportunities available, as well as long-term and permanent positions in a variety of specialties and grades.
What is the cost of living like?
New Zealanders generally have quite a high standard of living. The New Zealand Immigration Service has a useful website to give you an idea of the cost of living here.
What is the exchange rate?
Exchange rates are constantly changing; however, these are the current exchange rates at time of printing and can be used as a rough guide.
1€ = NZ$1.96 1£ = NZ$2.18 US$1 = NZ$1.35
How does childcare/schooling work for my children?
The standard of education is very high in NZ, and if your children are over 5 years old they must attend school. There are many options available for pre-schoolers and university students. for more information on schooling, please click here.
Do I need to get registered / licensed to practice?
Before you can work as a Medical Practitioner in New Zealand you will need to gain registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand. NZMedics will advise you on your eligibility for registration and we will manage this registration process for you from start to finish.
What is ‘IELTS’ and do I have to sit it?
IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. If English is not your first language you will be required to provide proof of your English proficiency before the Medical Council will consider your application for registration. You may be exempt from sitting IELTS if you have worked in an English speaking environment for more than two years in the last five years. For more information please visit their website.
Do I need a visa to work?
The majority of people taking up employment in NZ are required to be legally entitled to do so. Visit the New Zealand Immigration website for more information.
Do I have to have medical indemnity insurance?
Yes, you are required to have indemnity insurance however; it is relatively inexpensive. NZMedics will provide you with the details.
Do I need health insurance or am I covered under the New Zealand public health system?
To access publicly-funded health services, you must be lawfully in New Zealand at the time of seeking services, and be a holder of a work permit which: is a current permit that is issued for a period of two years or more. You will also be able to apply for private health insurance in New Zealand, please note that there is a three month stand down period for any new applications for insurance. If you are staying in New Zealand for less than 2 years we recommend extending your travel insurance to include your time in New Zealand. This should cover you for any lost belongings and medical claims while you are here. For more information on eligibility and medical cover please go to the Ministry Of Health website.
What types of outdoor activities are available?
In New Zealand we are spoilt for choice, and we have just about any activity on offer that you can think of! Whether it’s relaxing on a white sandy beach, strolling through a native forest, shopping for something uniquely ‘Kiwiana’, or enjoying the city night life, there is something for you in New Zealand.
If it is adventure you’re after, there is rafting, heli-skiing, bungee jumping, jet boating, skydiving and much more. New Zealand is also well known for its fabulous golf courses.
What is the weather like?
New Zealand has a temperate climate and given it’s length the climate varies from almost tropical in the far north and cooler weather in the South Island. Check out the weather forecast in New Zealand today.
Is there someone from my country I can talk to who has worked in New Zealand?
Absolutely! Lots of the doctors who have worked through NZMedics are happy for us to pass on their email addresses. Just ask your Relationship Manager for details.
What will using your recruitment service cost me?
Using NZMedics service is free of charge to all candidates!
How long does the process take once I have decided to come?
We suggest that you allow three to six months from when you want to be in New Zealand to allow sufficient time to secure a position, gain registration and a work visa. However if you are coming permanently the process may take longer.